/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45654998/usa-today-8164663.0.jpg)
This week, Mocking the Draft's Dan Kadar has your Houston Texans selecting a linebacker in the first round, but offers a couple of backup options as well. His primary pick is Shaq Thompson (LB--Washington). Dan's other possibilities at pick 16 for the Texans are also defense: P.J. Williams (CB--Florida State) and Benardrick McKinney (ILB--Mississippi State).
Kadar's notes on Shaq include:
Even with a superstar in J.J. Watt and a No. 1 overall pick in Jadeveon Clowney, it sure seems like the Texans need more talent on defense. Thompson is the sort of linebacker who could be shifted inside in a 3-4 and used as an asset in pass coverage. A cornerback is another option if Kareem Jackson leaves in free agency.
Whenever a blue-chip player is capable of making contributions on both sides of the ball, scouts certainly take notice during the evaluation process. Decision makers covet prospects with the athleticism and football IQ to excel as offensive and defensive players. Most important, their ability to contribute as two-way players speaks volumes about their football knowledge (evaluators understand and appreciate the work that it takes to master two different playbooks) and gives scouts hope that they could potentially serve as utility players at the next level.
Here is a highlight video (warning! may cause serious arousal):
What are your thoughts of Shaq Thompson for Houston? How do you feel about CB P.J. Williams or ILB Benardrick McKinney as first round possibilities?